Audi has revealed its new ultra-economical A3 using a 1.6-litre TDI engine. The premium hatchback can return a very impressive 74.3mpg and 99g/km on the official combined consumption cycle. That puts the £18,005 hatchback among the cleanest and most efficient cars available to buy.
Offered in three-door form and with a five-speed manual transmission only, the economical machine achieves its green figures thanks to an engine stop-start system, energy recuperation, a reduced ride height, low rolling resistance tyres, under-body cladding and a modified final drive ratio.
The 1.6-litre TDI engine produces 103bhp and 184lb.ft of torque and can reach 62mph in 11.4 seconds and a 121mph top speed. Only available in standard specification, the equipment list includes 15-inch alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, remote central locking, electric front windows and a Chorus radio with single CD player. Opt for SE, Sport or S-line specification and the fuel consumption and CO
2 output increase slightly, with these models achieving 68.9mpg and 109g/km respectively.
Kyle Fortune - 24 Dec 2009